We Remember

John Howe13 January 1934 - 4 November 2020

Funeral Service held at Threads of Life Chapel,

294 Burwood Highway, Burwood East

Friday, 13 November 2020

Order of ServiceOpening Hymn

How Great Thou Art

WelcomeRev Mark Simon

Opening PrayerLoving God, you alone are the source of life.May your life-giving Spirit flow through us,and fill us with compassion for one another.In our sorrow give us the calm of your peace.

Kindle our hope, and let our grief give way to joy,through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

Eulogy and Family Members Sharing Memories of John

Bible Readings Psalm 121 – Read by Beverley Morrow

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from?My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip – he who watches over you will not slumber;

indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.The LORD watches over you –

the LORD is your shade at your right hand;the sun will not harm you by day,

nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm –

he will watch over your life;the LORD will watch over your coming and going

both now and for evermore.

John 14:1-6 – Read by Jacqueline Parker

‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place

where I am going.’Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so

how can we know the way?’Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one

comes to the Father except through me.’

Reflection on the Bible Readings Rev Mark Simon

Photo Tribute Slide Show

Candle Lighting in Remembrance

PrayersLed by Rev Mark Simon

Concluding with the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day

our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation. Amen

Farewell and CommittalHoly and loving Father,

by your mighty power you gave us life,and in your love you have given us new life in Christ Jesus.

We entrust John to your merciful keeping: in the faith of Jesus Christ,

who died and rose again to save us, and now lives and reigns with you

and the Holy Spiritin glory for ever. Amen.

Committal Prayer

Closing MusicTime to Say Goodbye

Eulogy for John Howe

IntroductionDad, that smile those warming eyes…you were a true gentleman.

You had warmth and a kindness that people felt the moment they meet you.

Caring and compassionate, you were always the giver and never the taker.

What an amazing life you led.

Growing up in IndiaDad was born in Calcutta, India on the 13 January 1934 to Oswald

and Millicent Howe and he was a younger brother to Walter.Dad grew up in Kharagpur India, at a British railway colony, under a time where India was still under British rule. He was an Anglo-In-

dian and proud of it.

It was a privileged life with servants, British schooling, plenty of dances and a very close supportive Anglo-Indian community.

Life growing up was joyful. Dad’s older brother Walter who was af-fectionately known as Booboo was 18 months older, that closeness in their age reflected in their relationship. Dad idolised his older broth-

er. He would follow him around everywhere.

Dad use to talk about his memories of playing with his brother and friends, going to the cinema to watch movies, chasing dragon flies and waiting for the sweets cart to come around where he would buy

jalebi, kulfi and barfi.

Dad would also talk lovingly about the family servants who would look after them, to him they were not servants but family.

Dad’s gentle nature was present even at a young age. Whilst playing at home with ducks in his yard he accidently stood on one breaking

its neck. Dad being dad, vowed never to eat duck again and he never did. He loved his animals.

At the age of 9, Dad’s life changed forever when his father, an army corporal was accidently killed by a train, whilst he was on guard duty.

Relationship with his mumThe passing of his dad led to a very strong bond developing with his mother Milly. He often said he is the way he is, because he was brought up by his mother. Dad often talked about his mother, how affectionate she was with him, he would always sit on her lap and

hold her hand, even as a teenager.

SchoolDad excelled in school, he was intelligent and was a keen sportsman

making the school first eleven in rugby and football.

NavyIn 1949 at the tender age of 15, Dad joined the Indian Navy as a cadet. This was an extremely hard decision for him, given the

closeness with his mum and brother. He shed many tears leaving. Dad enjoyed his time in the navy, he trained as a radio/radar techni-

cian. He travelled the world to Africa, Singapore, Malta amongst others.

In his time in the navy the gentle and quite John took up a sport which was totally out of his character – boxing! When asked why? His re-sponse was, I wanted the extra privileges – which did include extra rations (including his sweetened condensed milk) and time off work.! Dad must have been a good boxer as he was the Light-Heavy Weight Champion of the Indian navy. He never talked about his accomplish-

ments, but he did enjoy watching the boxing on TV.

Dad is what can be termed as a runner! Every time he had leave from

the Navy and went home to his Mum, he failed to come back from leave on time. He couldn’t bear to leave his mum. He used to have to

be dragged to get on the train to leave before the military police came after him.

MumDuring one of his trips back home in 1956, Dad the handsome sailor

escorted a stunning young lady to a dance and they fell quickly in love.

They made for a dashing couple.June Margaret Hendricks, or Juney as he often referred to her,

stole his heart.

On the 30th of April 1960, Mum and Dad married and decided to immigrate to England, after India declared Independence. He was

honourably discharged from the Navy.Leaving his beloved mum was the hardest decision Dad made.

He always said that was his one regret in life.

Life in EnglandLife in England in those years was hard, but Mum and Dad carved

out a comfortable life.

Dad was the ideal employee – hardworking, fantastic work ethic and honest. He started of working in a transistor factory, before working for fisher foil as an electrician then Luton Hospital and then the Brit-

ish Railway where he worked his way up to a leading hand role.

ChildrenDad loved children – not sure who’s decision it was to have five

though, with four under four!In 1961 Wesley and Wayne were born, followed by myself in 1962,

Paul in 1965 and Simone in 1971.

After four boys, dad was ecstatic having his little girl, who he loving-ly referred to as Matey. She was certainly his mate; she would follow

him everywhere!

AustraliaIn March 1973 my parents again made the hard decision and decided to leave England and move to Melbourne, Australia where Mum’s brother Sidney and his family lived. With 5 children they thought we

would have a better lifestyle in a warmer country.

Initially they were homesick and missing their family in England. However with the arrival of Mum’s sister Norma and her 5 children,

life in Australia began to feel like home.

Dad found work as an electrician in a can making factory – Comalco in Clayton, where he stayed until he retired. I remember him coming home during his lunchtimes to check on us kids on school holidays in his white overalls with grease stains making sure we are all happy

and have been fed.

Growing up with Mum and DadEveryone who knew my parents, would know the meaning

opposites attract!

There was never a dull moment in our house with mum around. Mum the extrovert, stern and disciplined and Dad the calming, patient and

gentle influence.

Whilst mum was the matriarch, dad was the heartbeat of the fam-ily. He kept everything going. With mum working in an office full time and dad being on shift work he would do the cooking, cleaning, washing clothes, shopping and driving the kids everywhere. He was the ground breaking role model for us kids – equality. No gender

roles in the Howe family!

Dad was the one we would always go to first, knowing we could never get into trouble and he wouldn’t tell mum – we all trusted him.Dad had so much patience for us as kids. He never yelled at us, raised his hands to us or told us what to do and he would rarely say no to what we asked for. He was always happy to drive us around, much

to Mum’s dismay.

If we were happy, he was happy. Dad worked shift work so this also gave him the time to spend with us.

Dad was the cook, and all us kids loved his food. Mum’s cooking when we were growing up wasn’t great, however she made amends once we were adults and we relished her cooking. However, when we were younger, we would often check to see who cooked, if it was Mum, we would find an excuse not to come home or try and find

something else to eat.

There was nothing more comforting then coming home to see Dad’s car in the driveway and opening the door to the smell of a chicken

curry and his smiling face.

Dad’s way of showing his love was making us all coffee in the morn-ing since we were little. He used to give Simone a milky coffee in a bottle as a toddler. Best feeling waking up with Dad coming into our

rooms with a cup of coffee as a 10-year-old!

Growing up our house was often filled with family, aunts, uncles and cousins, whilst mum was the entertainer, Dad did what Dad loves to do – shower people with food, drinks and his coffee and tea. You

would never leave Mum and Dad’s house without a full stomach!As kids, we use to play cricket in the house. Whilst Mum and Dad were at work, we had game and I broke the chandelier. I managed to glue it together and no one knew. A few months later, Paul was run-ning in the house and accidentally knocked the chandelier (not hard) and it fell apart. Mum did a gasket and chased Paul around the house

(he took solitude in the toilet, his go to place when he was in trouble). In the meantime, Dad just had a chuckle. He looked at the chandelier and realised it was already broken and one of us tried to cover it up, but he never said anything and never asked us what happened. So, Paul, 45 years later it was me who broke it. Sorry, better you than me

getting in trouble.

Dad loved his country and western books and movies! I think I know the movie script of Shane off by heart, during his lunch breaks at

work he would often sit and read a western book.

Dad was a very compassionate person, he would often pick up hitch hikers and give them a lift much to our horror. If he knew someone who needed something done he would be the first to help, often us-ing his electrical skills helping friends install various things, he would not ask for anything in return. He would also be very generous with

his money, often donating to charity or to other people in need.

Being a very compassionate and gentle person, Dad loved animals, maybe a little too much! Toby, Mother Cat, Mini and finally Simone’s dog Chole who was a regular visitor. Every time you would visit we would comment they should go on a diet, or you would find them

tucked up in bed with a blanket.

Dad was so proud of his children, both Mum and Dad entrenched in us the meaning of hard work, dedication and doing your best. No government handouts in the Howe family – we all had to have a ca-

reer and work!

Dad was deeply religious, the first book he read was the Bible, he also carried his rosary everywhere. He was the person who taught us all our prayers. He always said his prayers before he went to bed and made the sign of the cross before he ate dinner. Once he retired, he

regularly attended church.

Grandfather Once we all started getting married and having kids, Dad really en-joyed and relished the grandfather role quite often spoiling the kids with chocolates, biscuits and soft drinks. Whatever they asked for,

Dad (Papa as the kids called him) would be more than happy to give them.

Mum and Dad had eleven grandchildren – Melisa, Adis, Jennifer, Cameron, David, Ryan, Candice, Nicholas, Thomas, Ashley and Jack, and recently two great grandchildren – Zayn and Bostan. He loved

every one of them dearly and always wanted to know what was going on in their lives.

He would always be at birthdays and celebrations quietly in the back-ground ensuring everyone was happy and was always making tea and coffees for everyone. He loved nothing more that seeing us all

together with his grandchildren around.

Dad cancer/Mum dyingIn 2001 Dad was diagnose with bowel cancer, he a was a survivor and with an operation and treatment he was given the all clear. However sadly in 2007 Mum was then diagnosed with lung cancer and sadly passed away 8 months later. The way he looked after Mum in that

time will always stay with me.

Dad never really recovered from the loss of Mum, he missed her dear-ly and for 8 years after her death would visit her grave daily.

He loved visits during this time especially from him grandchildren, he often said this kept him going.

Aged careThe final 18 months of his life became a struggle for Dad, he was diag-nosed as having dementia and then lymphoma and after several falls

and advice from his specialist Dad went into Aged Care.

The staff and residents at the aged care loved Dad. Always comment-ing that he was such a gentleman, always polite never wanting to

cause anyone trouble or put them out. Still fiercely independent though.

We would come into his room and he would still offer us biscuits, chocolates and chips stashed in his cupboard.

Let me tell you a final story about Dad when I was younger – As a youngster having swimming lessons I found myself drowning in the deep end of the pool – no one had noticed me gasping for air except Dad! He was watching me like a hawk from the first-floor balcony. Seeing me bobbing up and down and no one coming to my aid, he jumped from the balcony and dived into the pool like Superman, ful-ly dressed and saved me. Then in a very rare occurrence began to berate the swimming instructor. It took me nearly dying for him to

get angry!

Dad, you said in your final weeks that you have had a great life and you were ready to close your eyes. You did have a great life however

our lives have been greater for having you in it.

Rest in peace my darling Father, may you now be with Mum, Nana Milly, Papa Ossie and Uncle Boobo.

I can hear Mum shouting “John, John, make me a cup of tea”, I am sure she will keep you busy.

Until we meet again.Your loving son

Michael

Wayne’s Tribute

Dad, you passed away so suddenly. I was so fortunate to see you the week before. I could see you were suffering, but you did not complain. You were more worried about me and my family. This shows how

family meant everything to my Dad. Everyone’s Dad is special, but my Dad was REALLY special. He would not say a bad word about anyone and was always

willing to help. I will miss the many conversations we had and I will miss his

company. I will miss you Dad, Rest in Peace.

We love you.Wayne John, Ryan and Candice.

Paul Tribute

Dad - I miss you, I miss everything. We were blessed to have you as a father. Dad and Mum showed unconditional love for their children. Through happy times and tough times they never gave up on us and supported us. I will miss your sweet nature and calming influence

you were a true gentleman. Rest in peace Dad you will be missed.

‘The Little Boy Lost’ by William Blake

“Father, father, where are you goingO do not walk so fast.

Speak father, speak to your little boyOr else I shall be lost,“

Paul, Alison, Nicholas and Ashley

Simone’s Tribute

Dad, my best friend. I adored you the moment I was born. I was your shadow and you

were my protector. You always made me feel so loved and safe. Patient, kind and generous without fault, always putting your

children first. I could tell you anything without judgement. You always encouraged me, believing that nothing should hold me

back because I was a girl.

I cannot believe that I will never see your smiling face, feel your warm touch and your gently kiss on my forehead.

Thank you for being you, an amazing father, father in law to Paul and papa to Thomas and Jack.

The boys will miss your papa kisses dearly. I am so blessed to have had you in my life.

You are now finally reunited with mum.

Until we are together again.

You loving Matey

Papa’s Tribute

Jen: Most people here today, either in this room, or watching from home or from overseas knew John as Dad or Uncle John, but to us he

was only ever Papa.

Papa was a gentle and loving grandpa who will be missed and loved by all who knew him. Papa is at peace now with Nana June, the love

of his life, his world.

Cam: This is on behalf of our mum, Zareena. “There is so much I can say about this amazing man I called dad. I remember him telling me that after Michael and I got married he wanted me to call him dad and not John. He never made me feel like I wasn’t a part of this family. He’s kindness and humble nature made it easy for me to love him. We had many conversations about the different indian dishes we both like to cook. He especially loved it when we came to visit and I would cook dhal, rice and a curry of some kind. I loved talking to him about his time in India, often with black and white photos in toe. We would have fun at times when, to tease Michael, he would say things in hindi and laugh about it like an inside joke. He gave me a free run of the house to do what I wanted. I know he loved me as I loved him. I will miss him terribly but I will cherish all the years of

memories I have with him. Love you dad.”

Jen: When reflecting on our childhood and our time spent with both Nana and Papa, we remember feeling loved, cherished and happy (and by the looks of some of the photos we found, very well fed haha). Papa never stopped us exploring the different rooms in their house, using pots and pans as drums or indulging any craving we may have had. Instead Papa made sure our explorations, music making and indulging were fun and safe. Even now I can clearly remember Papa

always saying “yes my girl” to anything I wanted to do. A memory I will always carry with me.

Cam: As we grew older, Papa always took an interest in our jobs, always asking questions and checking in. papa was always happy to chat with us about our family history, sharing stories about his time in India, the Navy and meeting Nana June and the Hendricks family. But the most intriguing discovery we made was that Papa, our gentle, soft-natured Papa, was a heavyweight boxer while in the Navy! This never connected with us, as we could never imagine Papa hitting anyone! When we asked Papa about it, he simply explained that all the Anglos would gather there, so he did too. He said that he never really liked boxing, but he was bigger than the Indian’s. So he was good at it. Humble as ever, Papa never boasted or talked up his

achievements.

Jen: Papa was a man of few words, preferring to let others have their say. He never liked to be the centre of attention and even now would probably rather we all focus on catching up, sharing stories and appreciating our time together. This is what made Nana and Papa the perfect match. Nana June’s tenacity, matched with Papas tender

nature made them the best grandparents.

Cam: Papa, the example you have set about living a life showing people how much you care for them will not be forgotten. We will

miss your smile, your laugh, we will miss you.

We love you Papa.

Maureen, Keith & Family Tribute

I first met John when he started courting June in the late 50’s & thought June had made a good choice.

It certainly turned out to be the right one, when you see the family they raised.

John looked very impressive in his navy uniform and one could understand why June fell head over heel for him!

John was a kind hearted guy & a thorough gentleman.He always seemed to be smiling a bright happy smile that made

you feel welcome.

We have many happy memories of all the get togethers we had with family & friends, either at John & June’s or ours in Melbourne.

We will always remember those happy times!

Farewell John! You & June are reunited once again.God bless & RIP.

LoveMaureen, Keith, Justin, Lorna, Jerome, Diana, Tom, Charlie, Lauren

& Hudson.

Meneguzzo Tribute

Dear John, those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very Dear. Our thoughts go to all the family.

Italy is far from Australia but our hearts are there with you. Ciao John and wish Aunty for us.

Meneguzzo family

The Bird Family Tribute

Aunty June and her sisters used to see Uncle John, who lived further down the road, in the morning when he would put his mum in the rickshaw and wave goodbye to her on her way to work. John was a gentle and polite man , in all the years that we knew him he never raised his voice or got angry. He was always ready to help others. He lived for Aunty June and his growing family and put family and friends first. He was respected as the quiet and relaxed man that he was and his Navy colleagues would attest to this. He was loved by his nieces and nephews in England when all our children were growing up after arriving in England. All of his extended family remember many happy hours spent together and though we cannot assuage you of the sadness at this time we know that he is at peace

with Aunty June.

All our love Aunty Mavis, Uncle Carlisle, Sharon, Lesley and John.

Video Tributes

Wesley Howe

Adis Howe & Stephanie Martinez

To our loving Dad,

We are so blessed to have you as our father. May you now Rest In Peace with mum.

Until we meet again.

Your loving childrenWesley, Wayne, Michael, Paul and Simone

A Celebration of Life

We Remember

John Howe13 January 1934 - 4 November 2020

Funeral Service held at Threads of Life Chapel,

294 Burwood Highway, Burwood East

Friday, 13 November 2020